"Lenny-Lee Fest"

Today, I'm spreading
some LENNY Sunshine.
And we could all use
a little more sunshine, sometimes...

Slip Your Hand in Mine...

Take my hand,

And I’ll walk with you.

Make footprints in the sand

For an hour or two.

We can chat and laugh,

Or maybe just think,

With flirty eyes, a chuckle,

And cheeks scrunched up real high.

White snowflakes,

A Fall breeze,

Leaves rustling,

And warm sunlight wafting by.

We can dream on clouds,

In time or space.

Maybe fly on an elephant,

Or ride on a moose.

Feel the rain speckle our faces,

And our bare feet splash in puddles.

We can eat ice cream

And licorice, too. Red licorice.

Cuddle in a blanket on the couch

Or on the beach will do.

It matters not where or when.

As long as you Slip Your Hand in Mine

And we’ll be together again.

SAL

TO Lenny,
Close your eyes and imagine...
a voice & a face. 
Let this be FROM whoever you need it be from...

Firsts

Seventeen years ago, I met you.
Your eyes were bold and blue.
You gazed up at me,
and I gasped,
not having any idea what I'd need to do.

I remember your tiny fingers as they coiled around mine,
reassuring me you'd be there and I'd do just fine.
You murmured a lullaby for only me to hear,
And my heart thrummed
in your gentleness, oh so kind.

Once the room was empty, all your visitors gone,
you reached up and brushed my face, the first sign of our true bond.
You knew me. You really knew me.
And in that moment I was sure,
through all of life's storms, you would always be my light, my dawn.

Seventeen years ago I met you,
and everything was so new.

I wanted to protect you,

spare you from life's hardships.

So I prayed for God to shield you, keep you happy, never blue.

I snuggled you closer, promising to do my best.

And you captured me in your blue eyes again, giving me rest.

You yawned, and

I laughed out loud.

Then I vowed to give all for you, nothing lest.

So seventeen years ago today, I became a mommy for the first time.
I remember every moment, every turn on a dime.
Those memories were not for you, but to strengthen me, to be what you'd need then, now and tomorrow...always free.
They bled into my heart, changing me like a rhythmic chime.

They are locked away in my heart forever, ready to share with you.
For a mother's heart never forgets, but that I think you always knew.

SA Larsen ♥  

When we think of getting older, some people see retiring on the lake front in a cottage they've dreamed of building. Or some see it as a new door opening where traveling the world is possible. Regardless of what you imagine, take the time each day to retire, each day to dream.

My oldest turned seventeen yesterday. 17. I know lots of people say things like 'Can't believe how fast time flies' or 'Geez, it was just like yesterday'. But you know what? They're correct.

I barely survived the war of birthing Josh after 38 1/2 (yes I'm adding the 1/2) hours of labor, utterly confused and terrified. I had no idea what was going on and I was sure I was dying. It didn't help that Doc. Dingous was talking during my contractions about going golfing when this was over.  Um, dude, this was me practically going mad. Butthead.

So I simply wanted to wish Josh a happy birthday. I can't believe he has one summer left with us and then he'll be on his way, starting his own life. My door is always open, honey. I <3 you.

(Still on vacation. Heading to Six Flags, today. Hope your week is going well.)

GRATEFUL on MEMORIAL DAY

Waking up this morning brings thoughts of warm summer afternoons, children swimming in the lake, family, friends, and FREEDOM. 

On this NATIONAL HOLIDAY, so near and dear to so many, let us pause and remember those who have made the most poignant of sacrifices: their lives. May we also keep in our thoughts those who are serving our country today, ensuring safety for future generations. 

HERE'S A POEM I FOUND.

(Credited to the unknown author.)

My father was in the Naval Air and served two terms in Vietnam. He returned, but many of his fellow comrades--friends--did not. I am grateful for the sacrifice he chose to risk and to his friends who didn't make it home. Today, I will show that gratitude by sharing a beautiful day with family and friends on their behalf.

How will you show your appreciation today?